GEOPH-MS - Geophysics (MS)
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Program Overview
Geophysics is a hybrid discipline uniquely devoted to applying physical principles and methods to studying Earth’s and other planets’ complex systems (processes and properties). The undergraduate and graduate programs are designed to provide a background of fundamentals in science and courses to coordinate these fundamentals with the principles of geophysics. Graduate programs offer specialized training for professional work in resource exploration, research, and education and lead to the degrees of Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy. Graduate Degrees describes university requirements for the MS and PhD.
The MS program is available either as a standalone MS degree or as a coterminal degree.
Admissions Information
Coterminal MS Program
To apply for admission to the Geophysics coterminal MS program, students must submit the coterminal online application, including submission of a transcript, a statement of purpose, and at least two letters of recommendation. Applications with a letter of recommendation from a Geophysics faculty are generally considered the strongest. Additional letters from other academic or work-related persons also strengthen the application. There are no specific GPA requirements for entry, but the department looks for proven performance in a rigorous undergraduate curriculum as a prerequisite for admission.
Undergraduates with at least junior-level standing may apply, and applications should be submitted by autumn quarter of the senior year.
The graduation requirements to obtain the degree are identical to those for the regular Geophysics master’s degree.
For university coterminal requirements see section 4.2.1 of the GAP.
Minimum Units in the Program
Minimum University Units
Program Objectives: To enhance the student’s training for professional work in geophysics through completing courses and independent research.
Students must complete a minimum of 45 units of coursework. Lecture courses (component LEC) must be taken for a letter grade unless S/NC is the only option offered. Students must maintain a GPA of 3.0 (B) grade point average overall in courses applicable to the degree. Students are encouraged, but not required, to attend the department seminar.
Complete at least one course from any of the following 4 areas.
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“What we study” in geophysics ranges broadly across many areas: atmosphere, climate, cryosphere, energy, freshwater, geomaterials, hazards, oceans, other planets, tectonics/geodynamics/Earth’s interior. In consultation with their faculty advisor, students must identify and take 1-2 courses, each at least three units, that enhance their understanding of “what they study” or provide breadth and understanding in other areas of “what we study.” A small subset of the classes from the “How We Study” list (identified there) may be used to satisfy the “What We Study” requirement. Such a class may be used to fulfill either the “How we study” or “What we study” requirement, but not both. These classes are:
GEOPHYS 230
GEOPHYS 239
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The remaining units, to reach a total of 45 units, are from courses deemed relevant by the student and advisor to the student’s education in geophysics. GEOPHYS 400 can be used for some or all of these units.
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The student must present their research in a public, oral presentation attended by their advisor and one other Stanford faculty member and submit a written report to their advisor.